Gabri Veiga: “I’ve a lot to learn to reach Lucho González’s level” | OneFootball

Gabri Veiga scored in the 67th minute to set FC Porto on their way to a 2-0 win over Arouca at the Estádio do Dragão. The result leaves Porto alone at the top of the Betclic League table, as the only team to have won every match played so far. Speaking to Porto Canal, the midfielder analysed the difficulties posed by the opposition, highlighted the team’s progress, and also spoke about the influence of Lucho González.

How do you assess the match?

“The truth is we had prepared for a game against an opponent that was on a very good run, and we have to give credit to the Portuguese league, because the level is rising and Arouca are an example of that. They started well this year and it wasn’t a surprise to me. From the first day we focused on them, we knew how important the match was and that we had to be good in the press. In the first two rounds, we were less intense. Little by little, we’re getting back to our best version.”

Did the team feel it was on top of the game?

“Maybe in the first half they adjusted better, but in the second half I felt that edge, also thanks to the support of the crowd, and the win was clear. It could have been by more. Left foot? It’s a strength. I’m not two-footed, but I know it’s something I need to improve, because in these situations we can play on the opposite side and on crosses, for example, it matters. And thanks to William for the cross.”

Have you felt an increase in confidence?

“Things are going well, but if there’s more room to grow… We work very hard, the collective is good, it doesn’t always come off, but we’ve always worked for that.”

Do you try to speak with Lucho González to learn from his experience?

“He’ll always be a role model for me, but comparisons don’t work, he was unique here. I work very hard, always with my ears wide open. It was yesterday with him that I spoke about set pieces; he was the first to trust me with that. He was a very important and historic figure, and it was an honour to know that. He’s a very good person, but I still have a lot of growing to do to reach his level.”

What instructions did you receive at half-time?

“Maybe the coach asked us to turn our play into more chances and finish more in advanced areas, because if we don’t shoot, we don’t score. That’s what we tried to do, as well as the pressing, but we have a game plan that opens up as the opponents get tired. In the second half, it’s difficult because of the duels, but with the people on the bench, we make the difference. We feel comfortable and that’s how we want to keep going.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.